Eight Rules for Would-Be Pot Shops in Oregon

Last week, Governor John Kitzhaber signed a bill authorizing medical cannabis shops in Oregon. The state already has a significant number of dispensaries, to be sure, and the bill aims to legalize and regulate those grey-market businesses. The Oregon Health Authority was tasked with crafting final dispensary rules by the middle of next year. Here is a list of dispensary rules that are now codified in Oregon statute:

Location Requirements

Zoning: Must be zoned commercial, industrial, mixed use or agricultural.

No Grow: No marijuana may be grown on the property.

Schools: Must not be located within 1,000 feet of schools attended primarily by minors.

Competitors: Must be at least 1,000 feet away from other dispensaries.

Security: Must have video surveillance, alarm system and a safe, at a minimum.

Other Requirements

Testing: Must test product for pesticides, mold and mildew.

Licensing: Must obtain a business license from the Secretary of State.

Background Check: Applicants must clear a background check, and felonies for pot distribution or manufacturing disqualify a potential licensee for five years.

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